Tokyo 2020: Argentina Suffers Shock Defeat To Australia
Written by Patrick Echatah
Australia kicked off their Tokyo Olympics campaign in impressive fashion with a shock 2-nil victory over Argentina. Marco Tilio and Lachlan Wales were on target for Australia, Argentina on the other hand finished the game with 10-men as Francisco Ortega was sent off before half-time.
Australia coach Graham Arnold had said his players would produce “something magical” in Japan and they duly impressed in Sapporo Dome. Australia’s win sees them go top of Group C, the match began in an entertaining fashion.
Harry Soutter produced a big last-ditch tackle for the “Olyroos” at the other end before they scored in the 14th minute.
Argentina pair Fernando Valenzuela and Fausto Vera had descent chances and Ezequiel Barco struck the crossbar from afar. But Australia were entertaining and Riley McGree almost scored another spectacular goal.
However, his powerful overhead kick was prevented by Argentina goalkeeper Jeremias Ledesma.The Olyroos were handed a crucial one-man advantage before the stroke of half-time. Ortega was booked for fouling Nathaniel Atkinson, just seconds later the Argentina defender was shown a second yellow card for impeding McGree.
Duke nearly doubled the Australia’s lead within seconds of the second half as his strike hit the crossbar. Argentina tried to pull a comeback, but the flow of the game was disrupted by multiple bookings.
Atkinson, Duke, Souttar, Watt and Genreau were all warned for Australia, but victory was sealed 10 minutes before the stoppage time. Duke did well to set up Tilio and the substitute scored from 20 yards few moments after coming on to the pitch.
Argentina next match is on Sunday against Egypt, who drew their opening match against Spain in the early hours of today.
(ESPN)
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